[Info-vax] HP stopping VMS paper documentation ?

[JF Mezei]

ChrisQ wrote:

> I thinkk there's a good arguement for *all* essential services to be in 
> public hands, to
> ensure that consumers get a fair deal.


You could replace "essential" with "monopoly" or "near monopoly"

And even when you have such monopoly services, it is possible that it b
in privately operated companies, as long as they are regulated up the wazoo.

Québec is rich in electrical power. the governmebt owns Hydro Québec
(the electric utility). So, when the time comes to lure a large
aluminium smelter to Québec to create jobs here, the provincial prime
minister can call the CEO of Hydro Québec and tell him to offer a sweet
deal to that aluminium company wanting to setup shop in Québec.

The government can afford to make such deals because it doesn't have
fiduciary duty to maximise Hydro Québec's profits, and it can use HQ,s
lower rates to attract business to Québec and create jobs here.